A few simple words from Whitebeard warmed Ron's heart.
After all, Whitebeard couldn't think of any benefit Ron would gain from deceiving him.
At that moment, Vista stepped forward with a face full of worry.
"Pops, we're running low on funds. Even if we pool everything from Anderma, it's only enough for Ron to conduct two experiments."
Whitebeard frowned.
"Only two billion Berries left?"
"Yes. You know how it is, Pops—we usually don't collect protection fees unless it's absolutely necessary..."
Ron quickly added, "Enhancing Devil Fruits isn't guaranteed to succeed. There's a chance of failure."
No one was surprised by Ron's mention of failure—in fact, the absence of failure would have been stranger.
After all, granting someone a second Devil Fruit ability was already outrageous.
"Don't worry, Ron. Just focus on the experiments. Money isn't your concern," Vista reassured him.
"That's right! As long as it helps Pops recover, we'll scrape together every Berry we can, even if we have to sell the pots and pans!" Marco's eyes brimmed with anticipation.
Ace even pulled out all the money he had and eagerly stuffed it into Ron's hands.
"Ron, we're counting on you."
Feeling the unique atmosphere of this pirate crew, Ron smiled, a warmth feeling flowing through his heart.
No schemes, no deceit—just genuine care for one another.
This was the kind of pirate crew he wanted to be part of.
"I'll do my best. Besides, I believe the captain's luck won't be that bad."
Ron didn't mention that the first attempt had a 100% success rate—that would only invite unnecessary complications.
It was better to keep it to himself.
There was another reason he wanted to stay on Whitebeard's ship.
After completing ten enhancements, he would unlock the next technology!
Though he didn't know what it was, but since it was given by the system, it surely wouldn't disappoint.
*****
A few days later,
The vast, surging sea stretched endlessly.
Flocks of seagulls skimmed low over the waves, playing and filling the air with joy.
Ron lounged leisurely under the sun on the deck, a small table beside him laden with fine wine, fruits, and snacks.
Ever since the crew learned that Ron could heal their Father, they had gone out of their way to please him—almost to the point of fawning over him.
They treated him like fragile treasure, afraid he might break if mishandled.
No request was too much.
Even if Ron asked for the stars, they'd find a way to get them.
Ron found it somewhat exasperating and repeatedly told them they didn't need to go so far.
But they wouldn't listen.
If Ron didn't make demands, they'd do their best in their own way.
Eventually, Ron stopped protesting and let them be.
"Ron! Ron! Hurry!"
Jozu's excited shout rang out as he pointed ahead.
"That's Jaya Island! We're finally here!"
So soon?
Ron stood and walked to the railing, taking the telescope from Jozu's hands to peer into the distance.
Sure enough, the familiar outline of the crescent-shaped island came into view.
From the sky, Jaya Island's terrain resembled a large round biscuit with a bite taken out of its edge.
"That's Jaya Island, no mistake." Ron's lips curled slightly.
"We've finally arrived. We've gathered quite a bit of funds these past few days," Marco said, jumping down from the mast and looking ahead at Jaya Island with satisfaction.
"But we're still a bit short for money. Once we land, we should be able to gather enough."
Then he turned to Ron, still somewhat incredulous, and confirmed.
"Ron, are we really setting up base on this island?"
"That's right." Ron nodded. "The research facility needs stability. The constant rocking at sea could cause problems, and if something goes wrong, it'll be a real headache."
Ace also walked over and nodded in agreement.
"Let's follow Ron's lead. Better safe than sorry."
Ever since Ron had explained Teach's situation—effectively saving Ace's life—Ace's attitude toward Ron had improved significantly.
Ron gazed at Jaya Island, a faint, almost imperceptible smile playing on his lips.
According to the original storyline, Blackbeard would pass through here and eventually cross paths with Luffy.
But now that he had arrived at Jaya Island ahead of schedule, he wondered if the original plot would change.
If everything still followed the original storyline, that would be perfect.
He couldn't wait to see the look on Teach's face when he saw Whitebeard in peak condition, while also wielding a dual Devil Fruit powers—it would be absolutely priceless!
"We'll be stationed here for a long time. Once we've built up absolute strength, we'll conquer the entire sea!" Ron declared with conviction.
Inspired by his words, the others roared in agreement, vowing to conquer the seas together!
*****
Jaya Island was blessed with a prime geographical location, surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
Not only was the island scenic, but it was also rich in resources.
With its pleasant, spring-like climate year-round, it served as an ideal supply stop for many passing pirate and merchant ships.
As a result, Jaya's port was always bustling, filled with vessels of all kinds—from small speedboats to massive pirate fleets.
Given the frequent visits from pirates, the island gradually developed a range of facilities catering specifically to these seafaring adventurers.
Beyond the essentials like food, fresh water, and repair services, numerous entertainment venues sprang up—taverns, gambling dens, even makeshift theaters—providing pirates with places to unwind and enjoy themselves.
Over time, more and more merchants saw the opportunity and flocked to Jaya to open shops or offer services, even including the trade of slaves from various races!
However, when too many strong-willed individuals accustomed to solving problems with force gathered in one place, conflict became inevitable.
Especially in a world where strength ruled supreme, disputes over resources or personal grudges were often settled through direct confrontation.
This meant Jaya Island frequently witnessed fierce battles, sometimes even disrupting the lives and safety of ordinary residents.
Yet despite this, for those who craved freedom and adventure, Jaya remained a dream destination, drawing wave after wave of pirates!
But today—
The usually unruly pirates were behaving as meek as kittens.
Because standing before them was one of the Yonko's' pirate crews!
Whitebeard Pirates!
"What the hell? Why is a Yonko coming after us rookies instead of staying in the New World?"
"Shh, keep your voice down. The Yonko' crews kill without blinking. Watch your mouth."
"Who's that young guy? Never seen him before, and he's chatting and laughing with Whitebeard of all things."
"He's definitely someone important—his position is even ahead of Marco's!"
"Ridiculous! With that kind of placement, he might as well be the vice-captain!"